37-year-old French tennis player Gael Monfils played his first junior match at the age of 15 in Sweden. Then he turned pro two years later in 2004, going on to win 12 titles in his career and even featuring twice at the semis of the Grand Slams. There have been several ups and downs in his career, but who encouraged him to keep going?
Sweden has been a happy hunting ground for the Frenchman. A few months ago, Gael Monfils made a remarkable comeback by winning the 2023 Stockholm Open. It was his first title since January 2022 and also his second triumph in Sweden. He became the fourth 37YO to win an ATP title since 1990 and also the lowest-ranked player to ever win the tournament. Elina Svitolina witnessed the triumph of her husband from the stand. What a moment it was for the family. And, perhaps this support system is what keeps him going even in his late 30s.
Gael Monfils reflects on the influence of Elina Svitolina and his agent in his career
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Monfils and Svitolina announced their relationship in 2019 and then got married on 16 July 2021. Then on October 15, the couple welcomed their daughter, Skai and since then they have been managing their workload to give time to the newest addition to their family. Both of them are now going to feature in the ASB Classic in Auckland but before that Monfils gave an interview to Stuff Co NZ. And, here’s what he said about Elina Svitolina and his agent.
Gael Monfils says Elina Svitolina & his agent have encouraged him to keep going:
“The reality is I love the sport.. I really enjoy being on a tennis court. It’s something I can’t deny & it’s just amazing to be out there. I’ve had a couple of moments where I’ve had tough… pic.twitter.com/NA7LP3GjtA
— The Tennis Letter (@TheTennisLetter) December 26, 2023
‘The reality is I love the sport…It’s something I can’t deny & it’s just amazing to be out there. I’ve had a couple of moments where I’ve had tough conversations with Nicolas (his agent) & Elina. But I’m happy with everything I’ve done…When I’m playing I’m quite okay, but I won’t lie, to recover it’s tougher…I have to work differently with my fitness, but I try to make sure it’s just a number.‘
READ MORE: “Focusing Too Much On Negative Things”: Elina Svitolina On Her French Open 2020 Defeat
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Although winning a Grand Slam at this age looks quite difficult for the Frenchman right now, he’s more than capable of causing some real upsets in every tournament he plays. ‘Sliderman’ still remains one of the most exciting players to watch. Now, the couple is set to travel to New Zealand to kick-start their campaign for 2024.
Svitolina and Monfils ready for 2024
Elina Svitolina and Gael Monfils were recently seen with their daughter Skai heading towards Auckland for the 2024 ASB Classic. The women’s event is set to take place from January 1 to January 7 next year. While the men’s event kick-starts on January 8 and will go on till January 13.
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The tennis couple will have their youngest supporter Skai by their side this time when they step onto the court in New Zealand. The ASB Classic is surely going to be exciting and fans would love to see both of them regain their prime touch.
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